Justice James Omotosho of the Federal High Court on Thursday sentenced Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), to life imprisonment, concluding a high-profile trial that has lasted several years.
Kanu, who was arrested in Kenya under contentious circumstances four years ago and extradited to Nigeria, faced seven counts related to terrorism.
The judgment was delivered in his absence after he refused to participate in the proceedings, insisting that the court had no authority over him regarding the terrorism charges.
His refusal led the presiding judge to order security personnel to remove him from the courtroom for unruly behaviour.
In his ruling, Justice Omotosho cited several broadcasts by Kanu on Radio Biafra as constituting acts of terrorism, noting that his rhetoric and directives were anchored on violence.
The judge further stated that Kanu’s enforcement of sit-at-home orders in South-Eastern states amounted to terrorism, as it infringed on citizens’ freedom of movement and exceeded any constitutional authority.
The court also highlighted evidence that Kanu, through his broadcasts, engaged in preparatory acts of terrorism, including incitement to kill police and military personnel. Based on the evidence, the court found him guilty on all seven counts, despite his plea of not guilty.
Justice Omotosho concluded that Kanu’s actions constituted acts of terrorism against the Federal Republic of Nigeria, affirming the life sentence as a deterrent against threats to national security.
Never miss a moment! Get the stories shaping Nigeria, delivered straight to your phone. Follow Peoplesdaily Newspaper on WhatsApp for breaking news, exclusive reports, and the headlines everyone will be talking about, before anyone else.
